Another Beach Milestone

On Palm Sunday, April 13, St . Peter Lutheran Church at 3751 Estero Blvd. had its first service inside the church  since  September 2022. It was a total surprise to the congregation who had been worshipping under the big white tent and was expecting to do it again on Sunday.

Church President, Dr. Jason Kurtz announced to the attendees that this would be the day they went back into the building for worship. Pastor Tom Frey led the congregation up the ramp and into the building while they waved palm fronds and listened to the music coming from inside the building being played by organist Arlene Burm.  There wasn’t a dry eye in the crowd as everyone took their seats in the rebuilt building.

When Hurricane Ian struck, both buildings sustained extensive damage resulting in the lower building, Lau Hall, being demolished.  The main sanctuary/office building was spared any structural damage, but had flooring ripped up, roofing blown off and doors and windows damaged. There was also extensive water damage to much of the interior.

Chapel by the Sea and Beach Baptist Church were also devastated by the storm. Both of those church buildings were eventually demolished. The Catholic Church was also heavily damaged. 

There will be services on Maundy Thursday at 9:00 am, Good Friday at 6:00 pm and Easter Sunday at 9:00 am.  We are happy to see everyone!

There will be a formal rededication service in the fall.